Real Estate Drone Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern age of property marketing, the demand for Real Estate Drone Pilots has surged significantly.
As the real estate market evolves, the need for skilled professionals who can capture, analyze, and showcase property images from a bird’s eye view escalates.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Real Estate Drone Pilot?
Whether you are:
- A job aspirant trying to understand the specifics of this role,
- A hiring manager crafting the perfect candidate profile,
- Or simply fascinated by the use of drones in real estate,
You’re in the correct spot.
Today, we present a customizable Real Estate Drone Pilot job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Real Estate Drone Pilot Duties and Responsibilities
Real Estate Drone Pilots use their skills in drone navigation and video capturing to create high-quality footage of properties for sale.
They provide a unique perspective for potential buyers and help to enhance the overall marketing efforts of real estate agents and agencies.
Real Estate Drone Pilots have the following duties and responsibilities:
- Navigate drones to capture high-quality aerial footage and photographs of properties for sale
- Consult with real estate agents to understand specific needs and requirements for each property shoot
- Perform pre-flight and post-flight checks to ensure the drone equipment is in working order
- Adhere to all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations regarding drone operation
- Edit captured footage and photographs to meet client specifications
- Maintain drone equipment, including regular software updates and minor repairs
- Create and maintain flight logs for each property shoot
- Ensure the safety and privacy of property owners and neighbors during drone operations
- Stay up-to-date on the latest drone technology and real estate marketing trends
Real Estate Drone Pilot Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for an experienced and reliable Real Estate Drone Pilot to capture high-quality aerial imagery and footage for our real estate listings.
As a Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for operating the drone during property shoot days, maintaining drone equipment, and ensuring compliance with the FAA regulations.
The ideal candidate is proficient in piloting drones, has a keen eye for detail and a passion for the real estate industry.
This person must be dependable, have good communication skills and be able to work independently as well as part of a team.
Responsibilities
- Operating drones to capture high-quality images and videos of properties
- Maintaining drone equipment and ensuring it is in good working condition
- Coordinating with the real estate team to schedule property shoots
- Ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and other relevant laws
- Editing and assembling recorded raw material into a finished product suitable for broadcasting
- Performing pre-flight and post-flight checks
- Providing recommendations on drone equipment purchases and upgrades
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a Drone Pilot
- FAA Part 107 Certification or the ability to obtain it
- Experience with editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro X, or similar
- Strong understanding of drone technology and operation
- Excellent communication skills
- Attention to detail and ability to produce high-quality imagery
- Ability to travel to various property locations
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Real Estate Drone Pilot
- Work Environment: This job involves travelling to different property sites for shoots. Some office work may be required for editing and coordination.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Real Estate Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Real Estate Drone Pilot Do?
Real Estate Drone Pilots are professionals who use unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to capture images or videos of properties that are being listed for sale.
They work closely with real estate agents or property owners to understand the specific shots or angles required to highlight the unique attributes of a property.
This can include aerial views of the entire property, close-ups of specific features, and even interior shots.
The footage captured by the drone is often used in online listings, print brochures, and virtual tours to give potential buyers a comprehensive view of the property.
In some cases, the footage might also be used for inspection purposes to identify potential issues.
Real Estate Drone Pilots are also responsible for ensuring that their operations comply with local regulations and laws regarding drone usage.
This includes maintaining the drone equipment, understanding air traffic control and weather conditions, and respecting privacy laws.
Their objective is to provide high-quality, engaging visual content that can help real estate agents and property owners showcase their properties in the best possible way and attract potential buyers.
Real Estate Drone Pilot Qualifications and Skills
Real Estate Drone Pilots utilize a combination of technical expertise, creative abilities, and an understanding of real estate marketing to capture high-quality aerial images and videos.
The skills and qualifications for a Real Estate Drone Pilot include:
- Proficiency in operating various types of drones and related equipment for the purpose of capturing high-resolution images and videos.
- Technical knowledge of drone maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure operational readiness and safety.
- Understanding of real estate marketing strategies, with the ability to visualize and capture images and footage that highlight the best features of properties.
- Adherence to local, state, and federal aviation regulations and drone flight laws.
- Ability to plan flight paths and sequences, considering factors such as weather conditions, time of day, and property features.
- Skills in post-production editing to enhance the quality of images and videos, including proficiency with relevant software tools.
- Excellent spatial awareness and coordination for safe and efficient drone piloting.
- Strong communication and customer service skills to understand client needs and deliver satisfactory results.
- Required certification or licensure for operating drones commercially, such as the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate in the United States.
Real Estate Drone Pilot Experience Requirements
For a career as a Real Estate Drone Pilot, aspiring candidates are generally expected to hold a FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, which entails passing a comprehensive knowledge test.
This certification is essential to legally operate drones for commercial purposes in the U.S.
Most entry-level positions may require 1 to 2 years of drone piloting experience.
This experience can be gained through freelance drone piloting jobs, internships, or part-time roles in aerial videography and photography.
Candidates with about 3 years of experience often have a well-developed skill set that includes expertise in drone operations, knowledge of safety protocols, and proficiency in video editing software.
These professionals usually have a portfolio of their work, showcasing their ability to capture high-quality aerial footage and stills.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have additional qualifications, such as a background in real estate or marketing.
This experience allows them to better understand the needs of real estate clients and deliver footage that effectively markets and highlights the features of properties.
Real Estate Drone Pilots with extensive experience might also have managerial experience, overseeing drone operations within a real estate agency or production company, ensuring safety compliance, and training junior pilots.
Real Estate Drone Pilot Education and Training Requirements
To become a Real Estate Drone Pilot, the first step is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
Next, individuals must earn a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
This involves passing the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an FAA-approved knowledge testing center.
The test covers topics such as regulations, airspace, weather, loading and performance, and operations.
In addition to the FAA certification, real estate drone pilots should consider taking courses or obtaining certification in aerial photography or videography.
This will provide the practical skills needed to capture high-quality, engaging footage of properties.
Real estate knowledge is also beneficial for this role.
While not always necessary, some drone pilots may choose to take real estate courses or earn a real estate license to better understand the industry and the specific needs of their clients.
Staying up to date on the latest drone technology and trends is also important.
Drone pilots may choose to engage in continuous learning through workshops, online courses, and industry events.
Lastly, experience is key in this field.
Many pilots begin by practicing in various settings and gradually building a portfolio of work to showcase their skills and capabilities.
Real Estate Drone Pilot Salary Expectations
A Real Estate Drone Pilot can expect to earn an average salary of $50,000 (USD) per year.
However, the actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, the complexity of the tasks, location, and the employing company.
Real Estate Drone Pilot Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Real Estate Drone Pilot need?
A Real Estate Drone Pilot must have technical skills in operating a drone and its accompanying equipment.
This includes understanding the drone’s flight mechanics, camera operations, and related software for image processing.
They should also have the ability to troubleshoot technical issues and perform basic maintenance.
Apart from this, they need good navigational skills, understanding of weather conditions, and an eye for capturing high-quality aerial images and videos that highlight the best features of a property.
Do Real Estate Drone Pilots need a license?
Yes, Real Estate Drone Pilots need to be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
They must pass the FAA’s Part 107 test to receive a Remote Pilot Certificate, which allows them to operate drones for commercial purposes.
Some states might have additional requirements, so it’s best to check local regulations as well.
What should you look for in a Real Estate Drone Pilot resume?
Primarily, ensure the candidate has a valid Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA.
Look for experience in drone piloting, preferably in real estate or related industries.
Proficiency in photo and video editing software can be a plus.
It’s beneficial if they have a good understanding of real estate marketing, as the main goal is to capture images and videos that can attract potential buyers.
What qualities make a good Real Estate Drone Pilot?
A good Real Estate Drone Pilot is meticulous and has a keen eye for detail, ensuring that all images and videos captured are of high quality.
They should be adept at understanding and interpreting weather conditions for safe and optimal flights.
Good communication skills are also important as they need to coordinate with real estate agents and property owners.
In addition, they should have a strong understanding of privacy laws and FAA regulations to ensure all operations are legal.
Is it difficult to hire a Real Estate Drone Pilot?
The difficulty in hiring a Real Estate Drone Pilot depends largely on the local job market and the specific qualifications you require.
There are plenty of certified drone pilots, but finding one with specific real estate experience might be a bit challenging.
Offering competitive compensation and showcasing the opportunity to work on diverse, interesting properties can attract more candidates to your job listing.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve flown you through the key details of what it really means to be a real estate drone pilot.
Surprised?
It’s not just about operating a drone.
It’s about capturing the essence of a property, one aerial shot at a time.
With our comprehensive real estate drone pilot job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take off.
But why stay grounded?
Soar even higher with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to absolute precision.
Remember:
Every flight is a part of a larger mission.
Let’s navigate that journey. Together.
How to Become a Real Estate Drone Pilot (Complete Guide)
Flex and Achieve: The Most Flexible Jobs for Goal Setters
Workplace Wonders: Unusual Jobs That Defy Expectation
The Dreaded 9-to-5: The Most Hated Jobs That Make Mondays Worse
Change Your Workspace, Not Your Paycheck: High-Paying Remote Jobs!